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Admissions Simplified Blog


20 Best Scholarships for High School Seniors in 2025
Why It Matters College is expensive — no surprise there. But what most students don’t realize is that the biggest scholarships are...

EduAvenues
Jul 164 min read


How to Write the Identity & Context Essay for College Applications
These days, many colleges are asking for more than your test scores and transcripts. They want to know who you are —your background, your...

EduAvenues
Jul 116 min read


University of Michigan Introduces Early Decision for Fall 2026: What You Need to Know
Overview of University of Michigan Early Decision Exciting news for prospective students aiming for the University of Michigan! For the...

EduAvenues
Jul 103 min read


Crafting the Perfect University of Michigan Supplemental Essays
The University of Michigan is one of the most respected public research universities in the world—and with its competitive applicant...

EduAvenues
Jul 13 min read


The New Carnegie Classification and What It Means for Students
If you’ve ever researched colleges seriously, you’ve probably come across phrases like “R1 university,” “doctoral-granting,” or...

EduAvenues
Jun 294 min read


Georgetown University Joins the Common App: What It Means for You
In a significant shift, Georgetown University has announced that it will begin accepting the Common Application starting in August 2026...

EduAvenues
Jun 163 min read


The Decline of Legacy Admissions
Legacy admissions have long been one of the most controversial aspects of elite college admissions—quiet, unquestioned, and, for some,...

EduAvenues
Jun 123 min read


Why Harvard’s International Admissions Are Under Federal Review
In early 2025, headlines broke about the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) placing restrictions on Harvard University’s ability to...

EduAvenues
Jun 83 min read


Harvard Essay Deep Dive #1: Showcasing Your Contribution & Life Experiences
Welcome to the first deep dive in our series on mastering the Harvard supplemental essays! (If you missed it, check out our Ultimate...

EduAvenues
Jun 65 min read


The 15 Biggest College Application Mistakes Sabotaging Your Chances (And How to Fix Them Fast)
The college application process can feel like a high-wire act. You’re balancing academics, extracurriculars, essays, and deadlines, all...

EduAvenues
Jun 35 min read


Cracking the Code: Your Ultimate Guide to the Harvard Supplemental Essays (2025/2026)
So, you’re aiming for Harvard. You’ve got the grades, the scores (if you’re submitting them), and a compelling main Common App essay. But...

EduAvenues
May 313 min read


15 Best Research Universities for High Schoolers Who Want to Make an Impact
For students who love to ask questions, solve problems, and build things that matter, research isn’t just a college bonus—it’s the main...

EduAvenues
Apr 75 min read


The Waitlist Game in 2025: Who Actually Has a Chance?
Introduction The admissions decisions are out. For thousands of students, that means acceptance or rejection. But for a growing number,...

EduAvenues
Apr 75 min read


The Test-Optional Tipping Point: Should You Still Take the SAT/ACT in 2025?
Introduction When test-optional policies swept across the college admissions world in 2020, many hailed it as a revolution. Suddenly, the...

EduAvenues
Apr 54 min read


How to Choose the Best Colleges for Your Major
Choosing the right college is more than just selecting a well-known name. The best school for you is one that offers strong academic...

EduAvenues
Mar 195 min read


Which Colleges Care the Most About Volunteering & Community Service?
Many students wonder if volunteering and community service can enhance their college applications . The short answer is yes—but not all...

EduAvenues
Mar 124 min read


New Financial Aid Rules for the FAFSA in 2025: What Students Need to Know
Financial aid plays a crucial role in helping students afford higher education , and significant FAFSA (Free Application for Federal...

EduAvenues
Mar 43 min read


The Power of ‘Spike’ Applicants: Why Being Well-Rounded Isn’t Enough
or years, high school students have been told that being “well-rounded” is the key to getting into top colleges. Join clubs, do sports,...

EduAvenues
Mar 33 min read


The Role of Athletics in Ivy League and Top College Admissions
For many high school athletes, participating in sports is not only a passion but also a potential pathway to college. At Ivy League...

EduAvenues
Nov 12, 20247 min read


Showcasing Leadership in Your College Application Without Overcommitting
When applying to college, students often feel the pressure to be involved in as many activities as possible to show leadership. However,...

EduAvenues
Nov 12, 20244 min read
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